Which condition could be associated with pain radiating down the leg?

Pain radiating down the leg is commonly associated with conditions that involve nerve compression or irritation. In the case of sciatic nerve compression, such as sciatica, the pain originates in the lower back and can extend down through the buttock, thigh, and even into the lower leg. This occurs due to pressure on the sciatic nerve, often from a herniated disc, bone spur, or other spinal issues.

The other conditions listed typically do not result in radiating pain down the leg. Shoulder impingement affects the shoulder and upper extremities, cervical strain involves the neck and upper body, and hip dysplasia primarily impacts the hip joint without directly causing radiating leg pain in the same manner as sciatic nerve compression does. Understanding the mechanisms of these conditions helps clarify why sciatic nerve compression is the correct answer for pain radiating down the leg.